Noise from downshifting trucks annoys some High Bridge residents

HIGH BRIDGE — Tractor-trailer drivers coming down Fairview Avenue toward Cregar Road often downshift instead of braking, which has caused some residents to complain.

“Some residents contacted me and wanted to know if we had an ordinance,” Mayor Mark Desire said. “You can probably hear it in the entire town, it’s that loud.”

Downshifting creates a loud noise. “It helps slow down the vehicle and minimize the wear and tear on the brakes,” said Councilman Mike Stemple.

Desire asked council to consider introducing an ordinance to prohibit downshifting, and said he would speak with Police Chief Brett Bartman about enforcement.

“Would this be covered by the noise ordinance that’s already in effect?” asked Borough Attorney Barry Goodman, who said he would examine the existing ordinance before the next meeting. “Maybe this isn’t necessary.”

Current noise control ordinance states that braking or downshifting that exceeds 100 decibels as measured 25 feet away is not permitted. A decibel is a unit for measuring sound.

“If we do have an existing noise ordinance, then the next step would be to enforce it,” said Brent Dugan, chair of the Economic Development Committee, during a public comment session. Also, “the truckers might want to — after we get a reputation of issuing tickets — they might use Cregar Road as an alternate route, and that’s going to tear that road up.”

“We will be reaching out to companies that have trucks observed doing this, asking them to stop,” Desire said after the meeting. The goal is to “help maintain some peace and quiet for the residents,” he said.